8/13/2005 - Football
Former Navy Assistant Football Coach Mike Drake Passes Away

I'm sorry that it has been so long since you've received an email from me, and I am even more sorry it is with this news.

A few months ago we sent out an email updating everyone on the condition and situation of Mike Drake, who coached at Navy in the early 90's. I want you to know that the time between then and now Coach received more calls and emails than he could count. He heard from men as far away as Baghdad and I truly don't think he realized until now how profoundly he affected all of us who played for him.

Last night Mike Drake passed away. I won't use phrases like "lost his battle with cancer" because men like Mike Drake don't lose. He fought well, with honor and courage befitting a true warrior. An example to those of us remaining here. Remaining here with us, under our watch, are his incredible wife Patty, daughters Abby and Hanna and son Michael. Kent State is holding the Memorial Service there, most likely on Wednesday. Information will be on the KentStateSports.com website, it might even be up there now.

There will be a Mike Drake Memorial Foundation for the benefit of Patty and the kids that you can send donations to if you like. I will be managing that along with Patty and the athletic director at Kent State. Kent State has indicated that if Hannah and Michael should want to go there for college they would graciously provide that.

Men, wherever you are and whatever you're doing stop for a moment and remember those who helped you get there. Many of you didn't know Coach Drake and for that I am truly sorry. If you have a moment, make a call to those folks. Fortunately for most of us we had the chance to do that with Coach Drake.

And to him we say...Thanks Coach.



Sincerely,
Clint Bruce '87

Mike Drake Memorial Foundation
c/o Clint Bruce
5956 Sherry Ln, Suite 1900
Dallas, Tx 75225

POC for Kent State (rides, where to stay, times) Bob Herrell, Assistant AD 330-221-6200.